A Whisper says:
There’s no shame in defeat,
When you fought valiantly.
In competitions, there will always be a losing side. The victors can celebrate their glory while the vanquished can celebrate their courageous stand.
The American squad, as well as all the eliminated national teams, that provided their best efforts should not go home ashamed. They should be welcomed back like heroes, congratulated for a job done and thanked for representing their countries in a peaceful, worthy cause.
Losing is a humbling experience but not the end of the world. It is a motivation to ponder limitations. It is one reason to persevere. It is an idea to keep a dream alive, that one day can be realized.
To all the players who participated in the World Cup, I thank you. You have taught us the value of sacrifice.